NEWSLETTER 14th February 2013

CHARLES RENNIE’S FORTHCOMING 100^th BIRTHDAY LUNCHEON

120 ANZROC’s members and their partners gathered on the 34th floor of 100 Queen Street to celebrate former ANZ Managing Director Charles Rennie's forthcoming 100th birthday. Charles will turn 100 on 31^st March 2013. ANZROC Victoria Secretary Peter Pritchard opened proceedings and welcomed everyone to the lunch. Special mention was made of Kevin Watson who had flown in from Perth for the function and Dick and Pat Milnthorpe who are on holiday visiting from London. Also in attendance were ANZ Chairman John Morschel, Deputy CEO Graham Hodges, ANZ Executives Susie Babani, Malcolm Perry and Paul Edwards and former CEO's Will Bailey and Don Mercer.

ANZROC Victoria President John McPhee hosted the function and introduced a variety of speakers who paid tribute to Charles career with ANZ. Kevin Mitchell opened proceedings with an amusing series of stories relating to Charles and Kevin's time as his chauffeur (not driver) as well as some of his incomparable ageist jokes. John Vanselow who had worked closely with Charles at ANZ related a number of stories of his time at the Bank and painted a picture of a remarkable man. ANZ Chairman John Morschel presented a comprehensive summary of Charles career at ANZ, from entering as a clerk in 1928 to his retirement as MD in 1976. Nearly 50 years service including his involvement in two major mergers and transfer of domicile from London to Melbourne which helped make the Bank what it is today. John then presented Charles with birthday gifts from the Bank.

Paul Guest and Peter Fraser, Executives of the Banks Rowing Club also paid tribute to Charles' long involvement with the club including over 20 years as President. Paul also mentioned that Charles would be the guest of honour to the club's 150th anniversary in 3 years time. Charles promised he would stay around to honour that commitment. Robert Blair also an office bearer of the Banks Rowing Club attended and passed on his best wishes to Charles.

Charles gave an insightful speech of his time at ANZ and was very appreciative of the number of people who turned up to celebrate his big occasion and the many good wishes he had received. Everybody stood to toast Charles and his wife Joy and sang happy birthday and he's a jolly good fellow with gusto.

Finally John McPhee paid recognition to past President Neville Pearson who had played a significant role in planning the function over the past few months.

Initially Charles thought "it was only going to be a get together with a few of the boys", he was surprised and delighted with the outcome and that the Chairman was also able to attend.

Members attending that we had not seen for a while were Geoff Archer, Wendy Black, Anne Blashki from Shepparton, Bob Challis, Cedric Coxsedge looking well after a bout of ill-health, Brian Day, Norm Deady, Frank Donovan from Kilmore East, Muriel Drummond-Williams, Glynn Evans, long time Chauffer for Charles Rennie, Barrie Gibson, Teresa Goldsbrough for her first meeting, Peter Harney from Delacombe, John Hobbs, Ron Horne, Wayne and Bernadette Hulbert, Larry James, David Jones, Andrew Kelly for his first meeting, Alister Maitland, Sue McCarthy, John McMenamin enjoyed his first luncheon, Emilio Moreno, Reg Nicolson, Jeff Pitt, Rupe Thomas, John Winders, Murray Wood and Henry Wynne and it was a pleasure to see the number of partners who attended and enjoyed the festivities.

A selection of photos from the event can be viewed on the ANZROC website. An official ANZ photographer was also present and further pictures will be posted when received from her. John Vanselow’s presentation is also posted on the ANZROC website.

APOLOGIES

Diane Carew, Ian Davies, Nola Forsyth, David Gibb, Phil Goodier, John Fairbairn, Charles Griss, Stan Halbish , John Hawkins,  Dorothy Hayes, Phil Manning , Max McKoy, Noelene Noonan, Ron Phillips, John Stevens, Glen Twidale, Jackie Waite, Glenda White,  Julie Wilkins, David Woods

NEW MEMBERS

Gibson                                     Brent                           10 years ANZ

Kennedy                                  B.D.(Barry)                25 years ANZ

McMenamin                            John                            41 years ANZ.

We look forward to seeing Brent and Barry at one of our meetings. John attended the Rennie luncheon.

BEREAVEMENTS

Astall                           H.L. (Leigh)                9/1/2013                     83 years

I attended Leigh’s memorial service on behalf of ANZROC with around 100 family and friends at the service. Leigh’s children and grandchildren gave touching eulogies of Leigh as a father and grandfather and spoke of his career with ANZ .Leigh joined the Union Bank in Colac and spent time in country branches including Alexandra where he met and married Margaret. They moved around country Victoria with time spent in Horsham and then into country and city managerial roles including Richmond, Hobart and retiring as an Area Manager in the Toorak/South Yarra area.

Nichol                          R.A. (Bob)                   29/12/2012                  101 years

Bob served in the RAAF enlisting in June 1942 and after training served in New Guinea until discharge in March 1945 when he was a Leading Aircraftman in the 41^st Operational Base Unit.

Past President Neville Pearson wrote that the dignity Bob showed and his love for the people in his life was so evident to Neville from his visits to the Retirement Village in Dorking Road and Neville says he will certainly miss these little excursions back in time

Margaret Redman, ,Bob Nichol’s daughter emailed to let us know that Bob died peacefully and he was calm and comfortable and all the family were with him almost to the end of his life's journey. There was a wonderful celebration of his life, with family and friends and the Eulogy given by daughter Janene is posted on the ANZROC website. Margaret says thank you to all from the A.N.Z retired office's club who visited him.

Smith                           R.T.(Reg)                    8/2/2013                     89 years

Reg enlisted in the RAAF in March 1943 and at date of discharge in March 1946 was Warrant Officer in the 14^th Aircrew Holding Unit. He was one of the RAAF airmen posted to UK to serve in RAF squadrons and on return to Australia became a member of the famous “Odd bods”. Reg joined the Bank of Australasia at 394 Collins Street and on return from RAAF  spent time mainly in city branches before his first managerial role at Pakenham, then several city branches before taking over South Caulfield and then into Audit Department in Melbourne until retirement. Several years later Reg returned part time to ANZ Trustees for a 5 year term. At the funeral service ANZROC was represented by Reg’s great friends Muriel Drummond, John Hobbs and Jack Moyle.

Taylor                         J.M. (John)                 14/1/2013                    74 years

John joined ANZ in 1955 at 394 Collins Street and in a 40 year career spent time in city branches, Premises Department, South Yarra Processing and finally in the IT Department at South Yarra. John met wife Olive who also started her career at 394 Collins Street and they married in 1961 when she was working in ANZ Cards. Some 20 years ago they retired to Tura Beach in northern NSW close to the golf club and ocean.

Westerman                 T.A. (Trevor)              3/1/2013                      92 years

Trevor enlisted in March 1940 in the Australian Army and on discharge in May 1946 was a corporal in the 2/9 Aust Cav Commando Regiment.

Frank Edwards reported that Trevor Westerman was an old ES&A man. When Frank last knew Trevor he was Manager, Mortlake.

Condolences from ANZROC members are sent to family and friends of our past members Leigh, Bob, Reg, John and Trevor.

During January Frank Edwards noticed a death notice in the Age for Arnold William (Bill) Teague - in his 97th year and Frank also noted the passing of an old ES&A friend Norm Newbold in his 84th year who retired in 1986 after 40 years service. Many Scotty people will remember Bill and Norm from their time in the bank and Esanda (Vic Div).

NOT SO WELL

Our long serving Records Officer Debbie Jerkovic has just been released from hospital after surgery on her foot which will take some months to heal and members wish her well while recuperating. While Debbie is on the sick list for March and April you can send any changes of address to Ron Adams.

HONORARY BIRTHDAYS

The following Honorary members will be enjoying a birthday during January and February and we pass on congratulations from our members for your birthdays; Murray Abraham (87), John Bool (84), Ron Breckenridge (83), Alan Briant (81), Jock Buntain (83), Alan Burt OAM (88), Reg Caudry (81), Ron Chapman (84), Cedric Coxsedge (87), Max Fisher (82), Norma Fox, Wyn Greenwood (92), Dick Hellard (83), Mary Henley ,Frank Hickey (88), David Hughes (81),Dennis Humphries (87), Robert Hunter (95).Gerry Kennedy (89), Bob Kirkland (90), Pal Kitchin (90),John Labrum (87), Phil Manning (83), Norm Mattila (91), Jack Moyle (88), Laurie Redfearn, Norm Ross (92), Dawn Routledge , Mavis Ryan , Bruce Scott (87), Graham Spruzen (82), Terry Talbot (84), Bruce Tickell (84), Roly Webster (80), Brian Weeks (81), Barry Weston OAM (81), Norm Wheatley (82), Jim Wood (90).

INTEREST RATES

From  1/1/2013                                                                        From 1/2/2013

Less than $20,000       2.01%                                      1.93%

Greater than $20,000   2.57%                                      2.47%

BIRDIES TWITTER

What a wonderful afternoon for the 120 members, partners and guests who attended our February meeting to celebrate Charles Rennie forthcoming 100^th Birthday. I think it fair to say that this was the largest assembly of Bank executive we have had the pleasure of welcoming at a retired Officers function outside the annual Christmas luncheon.

Mike Smith sent his apologies due to an interstate business commitment that could not be rescheduled, however John Morschel (Chairman ANZ Banking Group) filled this void and gave an entertaining address before presenting Charles with a magnificent silver ‘dual picture frame’ featuring a copy of the Charles Rennie Managing Director portrait that hangs in the photo gallery between the Gothic bank chamber and 100 Queen Street and a recent photo of Charles and Mike Smith taken during Charles visit to Docklands organised by ANZROC.

The buffet spread was excellent as was the company, wine and beverages.

Charles phoned to express his and wife Joy’s appreciation of this very special day and the terrific effort by everyone who was involved. From my perspective it was a delight to get to know Charles and appreciate what a wonderfully humble and modest man he is with a great love for the ANZ Bank and the people who gave so much support during his reign.

JOHN VANSELOW’S RECOLLECTIONS OF HIS TIME WITH CHARLES RENNIE

This is a transcript of John Vanselow’s presentation of his time with his great friend and mentor Charles Rennie:

“Charles joined the Union Bank in Melbourne 20th December 1928.

Very early in his career Charles was singled out by his ability and pleasing manner and moved up through postings in Vic and Tas Branches and extended period in GMO until enlistment in RAAF in 1942. He was a flying officer under the Empire Training Scheme in Canada.  Demobilised in 1945.

In 1953 he was selected to be the first member of ANZ Staff to attend the Administrative Staff College at Henley-on- Thames.

In 1956 he was selected as Manager of the Olympic Village Branch where he had the pleasure of meeting many sporting people from around the world including those associated with his interests in rowing and swimming.

It was during the final months before Sir Roger Darvall’s retirement and following Charles’s appointment Sept 1967, when in a position titled Secretary to GM I had the pleasure of serving two creative, dedicated and personable General Managers. . Their banking abilities were widely recognised throughout the industry and business circles as were their human relations qualities.

I experienced Charles’s friendly easy manner in many ways...

Shortly following Charles’s appointment a small gathering of business customers was held in the ante-room. I had arranged drinks and hors d’oeuvres. On arrival the guests were introduced all round and as usual I returned to my office until conclusion of the function. Soon after Charles came into my office and invited me to join them. After the guests departed I proceeded to gather dishes, glasses etc to wash and put away. Charles came into the kitchen and said “You wash and I wipe. I hate washing.”

Another occasion during a visit by the Chairman Lord Carrington a dinner function was held at the Chevron Hotel St Kilda Road. During the evening Charles came and said “Come with me “. We went to his car and listened to the final rounds of the Lionel Rose, Fighting Harada world title fight being broadcast from Japan. Charles also had a family interest as cousin Jack Rennie was Lionel Rose’s trainer.

Charles was notorious for frantic rushes to the airport. On one occasion following arrival at the Airport his driver Glynn Evans noticed smoke coming from the exhaust. Charles after a quick glance “No flame all’s well”. He prefers cars with grunt and likes driving. Recently he was required to have a new photo taken when he renewed his driver’s license.

Charles’s career achievements.

-  On appointment to New Zealand in1960 Charles succeeded in growing the Bank’s NZ       business through supervision of structural change and policy within the merged Bank. In addition he fostered relationship between executive and staff by his involvement in Staff and Social Club activities. Over many years he retained contact with NZ Retired Officers’ Club. His ongoing interest and support of ANZ Retired Officers’ Club Vic is appreciated by all of us.

-  On appointment as Assistant General Manager 1964 responsibility for the Bank’s                       rapidly expanding International Banking business.

- Direct involvement in discussions with Reserve Bank, Treasury and other major Banks    leading to the introduction of Bankcard . Reserve Bank approval in 1972.

- Planning for the transfer of the Bank’s domicile from London to Melbourne.       Announced 1976.

-  Planned Construction of a new, modern headquarters at 55 Collins Street. Initially it      was a single tower and if I am allowed some liberty this construction was referred         to among staff as “Rennie’s erection”.

-  As General Manager ANZ Bank 1967-1970 and Managing Director ANZ Banking        Group 1973-1976.Charles was directly involved in the planned merger of ANZ            and ES&A. and subsequent implementation from 1970.

Charles your banking skills, friendly personal qualities whether in dealings with government, business, international and bank colleagues, also junior staff, all contributed to your successful career and personal achievements.

On behalf of all present thank you for your outstanding contribution to the Union Bank, ANZ Bank and ANZ Banking Group we wish you a very happy 100^th birthday on 31^st March.”

LETTERS

Murray Abraham sends his thanks for his birthday card for his 87^th. Murray says that as there appears to be such a short time between receiving the greetings it may be appropriate to ask Kathy if she is now sending them out monthly.

Bob and Val Bishop thanks Kathy for once again sending Birthday Wishes to them right on time. They are both well and looking forward to a trip to China next month concluding with 5 days at Mission Hills to play golf with a group from the Sandhurst Club.

Roger Brown writes to acknowledge and thank members for the welcome birthday wishes.

Jock Buntain writes many thanks for his birthday greetings and apart from a bit of back trouble which is keeping him away from golf he can’t complain.

Ian Cann emails his thanks for the Birthday card celebrating his 86^th. Nothing exciting has happened to Ian this year, no overseas trips, no big Tattslotto win. Just playing bowls and trying to keep fit.  He enjoys reading about past workmates and their activities.

Len Carr sends thanks to R.O.C and Kathy Trace for his birthday greetings which arrived on the day, even though the birthday is three days after Christmas! The highlight of 2012 for Len and wife Norma was a visit from London of their daughter and two grandsons for a month in August. Len and Norma were able to get all the family consisting of their seven grandchildren to spend a week together on the Gold Coast, away from cold Victoria. A great time was had by all .

Looking forward to Carlton winning the premiership in 2013!!!

Harry Carrodus writing to thank members for his birthday wishes says that he enjoys the Newsletter each month and he knows that members look forward to receiving the latest editions.

Geoff Christmas emails that once again it was great to again receive the Club’s birthday wishes though they seem to arrive earlier and earlier. Geoff and wife Heather’s year started with a bike ride in New Zealand. They rode the bottom end of the North Island and the top of the South Island. Apart from some challenging climbs the ride was wonderful and they enjoyed some great scenery around the Marlborough Sounds and the country north of the Takaka Hill. Geoff and Heather had their usual stint at Coolum Beach for the Southern Winter and a lovely Christmas at Porepunkah with some of the family. This year they are off cycling in France yet again though this time having three one-week stays in some medium to small villages to enjoy the atmosphere and culture. This is the fifth time to France and they really love the country which has lots of history and some beautiful scenery, let alone the wine, food, beer, cheese. Their 4^th grandchild is due in around 8 weeks and the time spent with them is most rewarding though the oldest at 3.5 years can definitely teach Geoff and Heather some computer skills.

Once again thanks for the birthday card and the newsletters that bring with them many memories.

John Conn emails his thanks again to the Birthday Card manager. His card arrived on time while John and wife Linda were away for a few days in Echuca. They enjoyed 10 days at Echuca, but had picked the hottest period they could manage. Fortunately the air conditioning was working well in the house they rented. Looking forward to going to Europe in April for three months.

John Duguid emails his thanks for the birthday card which arrived on the day. John wishes he had taken the bets 30 years ago when some people said he would be lucky to see 45. Miracles do happen. John’s still alive, keeping good health, playing golf 3 times a week and not getting any better at it. He is going away to Yarrawonga for the annual golf trip the week before Easter with George Lawson, Peter Treleaven, Bevyn Ranford, Brian Christensen  , John McConnell, John Ries  and John Phelan and a few ex Scottie blokes in Richard Harding , John Maguire, John Crough and John Briggs.

Max Fisher writes to thank Kathy Trace for her kindness in acknowledging his 82^nd birthday on behalf of the Club. Max looks forward to another year of good health and wellbeing.

John Flyger sends his thanks for the ANZROC Birthday Card which as usual arrived on time, thanks to Kathy’s good work. He also sends a belated message of thanks to the Committee.

David Gibb writes his thanks to Kathy for the birthday wishes. This year has been very sad for the Gibb family after losing their 45 year old son who lost his battle with stomach cancer.

John Hawkins reports that he will be missing the first three months of 2013 as he and wife Helen will be cruising down the Amazon, a little break in Florida then cruising around South America

Bob Heinemann emails his thanks for the birthday greetings from the club that arrived on the day. Bob received birthday greetings from friends and family, including a call from Bob and wife Heather’s daughter in Argentina where her husband has business and sporting interests.

Bruce Iddles sends his thanks for the birthday wishes and appreciates reading about other members travels in the newsletters. Bruce and wife Faye gave the Gold Coast a miss last year and flew to Broome where they commenced an APT  tour of the Kimberley’s travelling through the heart of the rugged country in a 20 seater 4 wheel drive from Broome to Kununurra and return along the Gibb River road, some 3000 klm’s. Accommodation was very good staying in wilderness lodges and motels. It was a magnificent trip, great scenery and attractions including 2 helicopter flights. Bruce and Faye then spent 4 days at Cable Beach Resort, visiting Cape Leveque and aboriginal communities, Willies Pearl farm and riding the camels at sunset. They don’t know why they waited so long to visit this wonderful part of Australia.

Kevin Kelly sending his thanks for the good wishes on his birthday says he has a fridge magnet which reads “Birthdays are good for you. Statistics show that people who have the most live the longest” Enough said.

Bob Lyon passes on his thanks for the emailed birthday card. This is the best way to catch Bob as he and wife Helen seem to be rarely home in Fiji these days. They spent Christmas and January in Melbourne hoping to catch up with friends and family, but ended up meeting many people from the medical profession as they both had several issues to sort out. They arrived home in early February to a better welcome than the  last homecoming two days after Cyclone Evan which devastated the western side of Fiji and hit right on top of the Lyons’ at Denarau. Winds of 285 kph left their mark and it will be some time before the vegetation grows back to previous levels and the big trees will probably never be replaced. As expected there was lots of damage to properties, boats, jetties etc. Bob and Helen were lucky, while the garden was trashed, the house, boat and jetty stood up OK, but many neighbours were not so lucky. They were in Hawaii when it struck and after being delayed for 4 days returned home to a mess with no power or communications, cleaned up a bit and headed to Melbourne after only two days home.  Bob is keeping busy with several boards including a new role as Chairman of a NZ based solar energy company and with rising energy prices they are very busy. They have decided to tick off one of the things on their bucket list and are going to England for the Ashes tour in July and will take in the Nottingham and Lords tests. Helen is really looking forward to ten days of cricket, he thinks.

Phil Manning writing to accept for the February luncheon which falls on his 83^rd birthday felt it was important to catch up with colleagues and friends but regrettably a bout of ill health meant he had to miss the event. Phil thoroughly enjoyed his years of banking. He started his career in Nigeria where he spent many years of wide and varied experiences before moving to Australia where he worked in FCA the finance company of The Bank of Adelaide before merging with Esanda. Phil had a number of outside interests but had a special love of soccer, playing for 12 years then refereeing for 20 years including refereeing a Cup Final in Lagos in 1959.He also got involved in club management which included finance, accounting and tax matters for the clubs and players and acquired the necessary qualifications to add to his banking and management credentials.

Kevin May emails his thanks to Kathy Trace for the birthday greeting. Mostly staying out of mischief on the Gold Coast in 2012,other than an extended holiday in Hawaii which is hands down Kevin and wife Heather’s  home away from home. The other highlight was the Bloods’ gutsy finals effort to make it 2 flags in his lifetime, 2 more than ever realistically expected. They extend best wishes to all members for a happy and healthy 2013

Wal McGillivray has written to thank our President and all members for the birthday greetings for his 90th. Once again Kathy has maintained the ANZ standard of perfect timing. Wal thoroughly enjoyed the Christmas lunch – members so seldom get the opportunity to catch up with old friends. For many members it means that there are familiar faces missing but memories last forever.

Jock McGregor emails his thanks to the Committee, for the electronic birthday card. It was really appreciated. Jock is currently based in Shanghai and working away with Travelex. All good there and enjoying it. Vicki comes and goes as she isn’t keen on staying in Shanghai  full time, and spends her time between Shanghai, Point Lonsdale and St Louis in France (where daughter and granddaughter live – and of course son-in-law!). Not a bad life for some hey? Jock was home in Point Lonsdale for a family Christmas and New Year which was great. He is planning to go to France to see his granddaughter in February (Chinese New Year) so looking forward to that. Son Ross is still in Shanghai, running his own business (Rapid Offshore Group) and helping with their investments in the hospitality game.  They  have a bit of a portfolio now with three (or really 2 and 1/2) Camels (http://camelsportsbar.com/), Sliders Bar (http://www.shanghaisliders.com/) and the Blarney Stone (it hasn’t a website yet but this is a review site http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Restaurant_Review-g308272-d2073803-Reviews-The_Blarney_Stone_Irish_Pub-Shanghai.html). Jock and Ross have only had the Blarney Stone since 1^st January and it will change, dramatically from mid February. The existing Blarney Stone business will be moved into a new site and the existing site will be transformed into an Italian restaurant (with a working name DOC Gastronomia Italianna) opening in April. Busy times!! Current plans are to complete his Travelex role in May and will be back in Australia after that, so hopes to catch up.

Bruce Michell emails his thanks to Kathy Trace for the birthday card. Having retired from the Bank over 20 years ago he always appreciates being remembered.

Alex Pigdon emails his thanks for the good wishes received on the occasion of his 76^th birthday.

Neil Robinson writing from Highton says after reading Ray Murphy’s comments in the December newsletter he recalled that on the way to Casterton to take up his first managerial appointment he was instructed to call on Ray at Hamilton who gently told Neil that one of the high profile Casterton graziers had moved his account to Ray as the customer could not stand having to break in another new Bank Manager. Neil mentioned that he was the Accountant at Ballarat East when Gavan Ryan was manager. Gavan was a real character and often smoked his pipe in the office and sometimes the spent match used for lighting the pipe was discarded into the waste paper basket which occasionally burst into flame. Neil at the time was a volunteer fireman and felt that while the action was funny it was a bit dangerous. As for his fire fighting career an Auditor laughed after a fire broke out in a Maryborough bakery and the mixing of flour and water resulted in Neil returning to the office with his clothes covered in “dough”.

Molly Saint writing from Ballarat says thank you all for the birthday greetings and as hers falls on Christmas Day it’s a double celebration. She still appreciates receiving the newsletter although fewer and fewer names mean anything to her now.

Des Schultz says it was another very enjoyable ANZROC Christmas Party – many thanks to all concerned. Kevin Mitchell’s opening with a medley of jokes was a great start to the day.

John Stevens emailing his thanks for his birthday wishes has asked to pass on his thanks to the ANZROC (Vic) Committee for the Life Membership granted to John last year.” It was a privilege for me to have had an opportunity to serve ANZROC with such a generous group of dedicated former colleagues.”

Sandra Street emails that as usual the wonderful Kathy struck right on the dot with the birthday greetings, which were very much appreciated. Sandra and husband Patrick celebrated by going out to dinner at Kenzan in Collins Place. She can remember when that restaurant opened and in all these years has never been until now. It was very good. While they were away on a short cruise holiday recently Sandra renewed acquaintance with a former colleague from Royal Bank Branch over 50 years ago by name of Barry Kennedy. Sandra was successful in marketing the Club to Barry as he is now a member.

Neville Taylor sends is thanks for the good wishes he received for the occasion of his 92^nd birthday. Neville is impressed with the work of the organisation as it is obviously very time consuming.

Glen Twidale emails his thanks to Kathy for the birthday card recognising his advancing years. Glen was reminiscing about his time in Hobart. He started work in the Hobart office in 1949 after two years in Toowoomba. Peter Wilks was on the staff and talked Glen into playing hockey (OHA) and they both made the State side. He wouldn’t know how to play the game now.  It's become so fast and skilful-and they don't seem to have oranges at half time!!

Athol Watkins writing from Clifton Springs says thanks for the reminder as the birthday cards seem to be coming along more quickly each year. Athol and wife Barbara had a very enjoyable trip last year firstly to London then on to Rome and a cruise of the Eastern Mediterranean. Coming back to the wet and cold winter here did nothing for them so their daughter sent them off to her Redcliffe unit for a few weeks. Once back in Clifton Springs it was bowls for Athol and croquet for Barbara. It’s nice to read about old colleagues and their adventures.

Brian Weeks sends his thanks for the birthday wishes for his 81^st and passes on his best wishes to his ANZROC friends and colleagues.

Glenda White emails her thanks to all the retired officers for her birthday card which arrived on the day and was a wonderful surprise.

Keith Winckles emails his thanks for the birthday greetings received from Kathy which arrived, as usual, on his birthday. How she can do it Keith does not know because very few others arrive on the day. It is now 15 years since he retired and is just starting to slow down, having developed both knee and hip problems since tearing a hamstring mid year. Keith was still able to enjoy his trip to Iguassu Falls and Galapagos Islands in November, although the travel was tiring; He spent 50 hours in aircraft and another 30 or so waiting around in airports for connections, queuing at immigration or to check in. Travellers may have to expect this when travelling long distances but it’s still frustrating.

Brian Wrigley emails thanks very much for the card. Still fit and well on the big 66.Thought it was time for a bit of sport, so Brian has taken up fencing with the epee. Certainly keeps the heart pumping.

Theo Yardley emailing from St Ives N.S.W. says many thanks to the committee and members for birthday greetings for his 85th. Unfortunately, wife Pat's health does not permit travel these days so the newsletter and cards are even more welcome. Best wishes to all members for 2013.

AND

Sam Bartuccelli, Anne Blashki, Diane Carew, Trevor Cookson, David Crisp, Bob English, Mark Flower, Neil Franklin, Harry Glover, David Harkin, Val Goldsworthy, Alister Maitland, Ian McRobinson, Godfrey Mills, Ray Murphy, Mike Nickell, Reg Nicolson, Greg Payne,  Geoff Perdriau, Bevyn Ranford, Peter Richardson, Brian Sanders, Bruce Sanderson, Norma Thomas , John Turnbull, John White, Garry Williams, Peter John  Williams.

ANZROC QSLD, NSW, SA, TAS, WA

MATTERS OF INTEREST

ANZROC AUTUMN GOLF COMPETITION

Golfers please note that the autumn golf day has been scheduled for Monday April 29, 2013 at Eastern golf club. Entry forms will follow in the March and April newsletters as well as posted on the website. Anyone requiring information can contact John Inglis via email (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or Mobile phone 0416048407.

ANZ REUNION FOR 2013 FOR 351 and 394 COLLINS STREET PAST STAFF on 28^th April 2013

Our member Nola Forsyth has advised that she has organised this years reunion for Sunday 28^th April from 1.30 pm to 4.30pm for past Staff of 351 and 394 Collins Street Branches at the Lions Club, Corner of Riversdale Road and Station Street, Box Hill and she is keen to see as many past members of the two branches again this year to catch up and enjoy swapping banking stories.  Nola would like to hear from those interested and she can be contacted on 9830 4501 or by post to 102 Canterbury Road, Canterbury 3126. She asks that for the afternoon tea ladies bring a small plate and men make a donation of $5.00 to cover costs of hall hire and sundries.

ANZROC 2013 MEETINGS AND EVENTS

• April 11:                      Clayton RSL – ANZAC Meeting  Peter Pritchard has arranged                                                speaker (Burma Railway)
• May 9:                         100 Queen Street – Salvation Army – Committee Meeting

Note the change of Venue for the June meeting…

• June 13:                       Moonee Valley Racing  Entertainment Centre

APT OFFER TO ANZROC MEMBERS FOR January/February 2013

12 Day Cooktown & Cape York

OFFER: Save up to $1,630* per couple

ANZ Price $6,180 per person, twin share*. (Normal price from $6,995)

Departs May to September 2013. Book by 28 February 2013

Discover ancient rainforest and remote cattle stations, then enjoy a scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef on your way back to Cairns from Thursday Island.

Hurry offer ends 28 February 2013 unless sold out.

Includes:

Stay 2 nights in Cooktown

Enjoy an insightful Guurrbi tour

Included flight between Horn Island and Cairns

Visit isolated Thursday Island

Walk to the northernmost point of the Australian mainland

Unwind on a Daintree River Cruise

Explore the rainforests of Cape Tribulation

Travel the Bloomfield Track

28 meals

For more information, call 1300 204 588 or visit www.aptouring.com.au/ANZStaffClub

*Conditions apply. Prices shown are per person, twin share and include savings where applicable and ANZ Staff discount. Prices are correct as at 2 January 2013 for departures in 2013, but may fluctuate due to changes in surcharges, fees, taxes or exchange rates. Offers are not combinable with any other offer, available on new bookings only and subject to availability. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Offer valid on CY12 departing May to September 2013. A non-refundable deposit of $200 per person due within 7 days. Final Payment is due 100 days prior to departure. Credit card payments may incur surcharge. See APT’s Cape York and Outback Wilderness Adventures 2013 brochure for full terms and conditions.

NEXT MEETING

THURSDAY 14^TH MARCH 2013

ANZROC MEMBERS AND PARTNERS are invited to join us at the MAROONDAH SPORTS CLUB , CORNER MOUNT DANDENONG AND DUBLIN ROADS RINGWOOD EAST (Entrance Mount Dandenong Road) on Thursday 14^th March 2013 from 12 noon.

We are greatly appreciative; once again, of the assistance Lyn and Les Stevens and David and Glen Knuckey are giving in bringing this function together.

It is proposed that we meet at the Maroondah Sports Club at midday with the view to ordering lunch around 12.30 pm. The Maroondah Club provides a two course Seniors Luncheon for approx $17.00 per head. Drinks are at the Club prices. They also provide a broader menu should this be preferred. To assist members and partners, we will endeavour to provide transport to and from the venue for those members/partners who do have mobility difficulties. We would also appreciate any assistance members can give in provision of transport should such be required

If you are interested in attending this luncheon, we would appreciate if could return the following notice by 5^th March 2013

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ANZROC MEMBERS AND PARTNERS SUBURBAN LUNCHEON AT THE MAROONDAH SPORTS CLUB MIDDAY Thursday 14^th MARCH 2013

Members Name…………………………………………..

Partners Name……………………………………………

I/we will be attending the luncheon: Yes / No

I am able to assist with transport for members who require assistance: Yes / No

I would appreciate assistance with transport: Yes / No

This information to be emailed to David and Glen Knuckey at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , or posted to David and Glen at PO Box 242 Dingley 3172

Should you wish to telephone, please call David on 95510414 prior to Feb 28^th ______________________________________________________________________________________

Ron Adams,

Newsletter Editor